RismadarVoice Reporters
October 19, 2026
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged supporters of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to unite behind President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, arguing that stronger political support could improve the state’s influence at the federal level.
Wike appealed during an interactive meeting with Fubara-aligned supporters and youth leaders in Port Harcourt on Monday, as reconciliation efforts continued between previously divided political groups in Rivers State.
The minister called on stakeholders to set aside past disagreements and work together under the Rainbow Coalition ahead of the general elections.
He argued that delivering substantial votes for Tinubu could strengthen Rivers State’s prospects of securing additional federal appointments and development opportunities.
Wike cited existing federal appointments involving Rivers indigenes and infrastructure projects, including the Bonny road, as examples of what he described as the benefits of cooperation with the Federal Government.
He maintained that his political objective was to strengthen Rivers State’s relevance in national affairs rather than pursue another governorship ambition.
Addressing grievances arising from the state’s prolonged political crisis, Wike assured supporters who felt excluded that efforts were underway to reintegrate them into the coalition’s activities.
He encouraged youth leaders to return to their respective local government areas, rebuild relationships and prepare for grassroots political mobilisation.
The minister also spoke about plans to establish campaign committees ahead of Tinubu’s anticipated visit to Rivers State.
Earlier, former Port Harcourt Mayor Ezebunwo Ichemati, speaking on behalf of Fubara’s supporters, expressed readiness to cooperate with Wike and other coalition leaders.
Ichemati described the engagement as a significant step towards ending political divisions that had affected the state’s leadership and legislative activities.
He said supporters previously aligned with opposing political camps were prepared to work together towards shared electoral objectives.
The former mayor also indicated that Governor Fubara was aware of the engagement and supported the reconciliation process.
He pledged that grassroots supporters would participate in the coalition’s mobilisation activities ahead of the elections.
The latest meeting follows renewed efforts by Wike and Fubara to resolve their political differences.
However, Wike’s suggestion that stronger electoral support could attract additional federal appointments remains a political argument rather than an established government allocation policy.
